Narragansett occupies a narrow strip of land between the Pettaquamscutt River and Narragansett Bay. Its sandy beaches and lush inland woods appealed to wealthy Victorians, who transformed the area into an exclusive resort by building hotels, Narragansett Pier and the renowned Towers Casino. Built in 1883, the casino has been restored fully and now houses the local chamber of commerce.Although the 1938 hurricane washed away the pier, locals still refer to the downtown area as “the pier.”
Narragansett has beautiful beaches which attract many visitors and is home to a large commercial fishing fleet. Take a scenic drive down Route 1A to see the ocean and grand old shingle-style homes. You’ll eventually wind up at Point Judith Lighthouse, which has been in continuous operation since the 19th century. Check out all the great beaches of the east coast here. Visit Narragansett RI today!
Weather – When to Visit Narragansett
Average temperatures in Narragansett vary drastically. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a chance of rain most of the year. If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Narragansett, the hottest months are July, August, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid July where highs are regularly around 84.1°F (28.9°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 72.6°F (22.6°C) at night.
While Narragansett in the summertime is great for shorts, tank tops or t-shirts, and bathing suits, you are going to want to pack warmer clothing for the winter weather – pants, sweaters, sweatshirts, and jackets are all necessities, and since the area is so close to the water the wind can be bitter, so gloves, hats, and scarves are recommended for those chilly days.
What Should You Pack?
When figuring out what to pack for the beach, there are two tips to keep in mind. First, forgetting an item isn’t the end of the world. Unless you’re heading for a remote, deserted island, chances are you can find a store where you can pick up the extras. Second, don’t stress out over making a packing list when there’s a stress-free beach travel essentials list for you below:
- Sunglasses and hats offer much-needed sunscreen and flip flops are perfect for navigating hot, sandy beaches. Go pack them now so you’re not kicking yourself later.
- What about those little items that make beach visits so much more enjoyable? For a little extra comfort on your trip, make sure you pack: Lip balm, sunscreen, bug spray.
- Beach toys and goggles are a must for kids. Building sandcastles and viewing the underwater wonders are perennial favorites.
- Take a first-aid kit with you. Hopefully you’ll only have to worry about a few minor scrapes from seashells, but having your own kit handy is a good precaution.
- Beach Bag – Your beach bag will likely contain a few of the items mentioned above. For a well-rounded bag, consider tossing in sunscreen, lip balm, bug spray, first-aid kit and water-proof baggies.
- Beach Gear – No matter who’s supplying the gear, look to have the following items on hand: beach bag, beach chairs, beach towels, beach umbrella or tent, beach cart and a cooler.
- Remember: Don’t wait until you’re parched to drink. When you’re out in the heat and sun, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking regularly. So take along a water bottle as well.
Narragansett Area Beaches

Scarborough State Beach
Scarborough State Beach Scarborough State Beach is Rhode Island’s most popular and well known beach. Developed in 1937, this 26 acre facility located on Ocean Road in Narragansett has approximately 2,325 feet of beach frontage. It has long been known as the principal destination for a “day at the beach” for thousands of Rhode Islanders over the years.
.
.

Roger Wheeler State Beach
Roger Wheeler State Beach Named for the man who developed the Rhode Island State Life-Saving System, Roger Wheeler State Beach is also known locally as Sand Hill Cove Beach. Protected from Block Island Sound by an extensive breakwater barrier, this is a popular beach for young children and families due to gentle surf as this beach is fully.
.

Salty Brine State Beach
Salty Brine State Beach Salty Brine State Beach is a sandy and clean beach with gentle surf as this beach is also fully protected from Block Island Sound by an extensive breakwater barrier. Formerly known as Galilee State Beach, Salty Brine State beach was dedicated in 1990 to Rhode Island’s most widely recognized radio personality, Salty Brine.
.

Narragansett Beach
Narragansett Beach is a classic New England Saltwater Coastal Beach front that offers some of the best, cleanest and accessible beach conditions for the residents and tourist in New England. Located in the center of town, the beach offers ample parking in the North, South, West and Cabana parking areas along with food, restrooms, first-aid office, surfing area and a beautiful sandy beachfront.
.
Things to do in Narragansett
C-Devil II Sportfishing Inc.
Passengers can board the vessel for 4- to 12-hour excursions, during which you have the opportunity to catch Striped Bass, Bluefish, Tautog, Fluke, Cod, Tuna, and even Sharks. The boat itself is stocked with all the gear necessary to take on fish of all sizes. C-Devil can also take you on a whale or seal watch, lighthouse tour, or a sightseeing tour designed just for you. Telephone: 401-374-1439 Web: C-Devil II Sportfishing Inc.
Narrow River Kayaks
For those seeking a personalized and educational experience on the water, Narrow River Kayaks offers a variety of guided excursions. This is a great way for a beginner to explore the watershed with the added comfort of an experienced guide to lead the way. Telephone: 401-789-0334 Web: Narrow River Kayaks
Antique Yacht Collection
Antique Yacht Collection offers private cruises for groups of six or less. Cruise beautiful Newport harbor from your own classic boat, cruises start at 1hr45min for $290. We encourage guests to BYOB, and BYO swimsuit. Pets are always welcome. Telephone: 401-678-6740 Web: Antique Yacht Collection
Gansett Cruises
Gansett Cruises – Harbor Tours, Sunset Cruises and Private Charters from Newport Harbor, Rhode Island. On your Gansett cruise you’ll break away from the typical rushed harbor tour to offer a quiet, relaxing and delightful historic cruise through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay’s East Passage on their comfortably cushioned and sun-shaded deck, or their top ‘sunny side’ deck. Telephone: 401-619-1300 Web: Gansett Cruises
Warm Winds
Warm Winds welcomes people of all ages and surfing abilities to join them for a lesson. Whether you’ve previously taken lessons or never tried surfing before, with a positive attitude and the ability to swim by yourself, you’ll be out there shredding with best of them in no time! Telephone: 401-789-9040 Web: Warm Winds
Best Narragansett Restaurants
Aunt Carrie’s Seafood Restaurant $11 – 30
They are very well known for their clam cakes and chowder. They offer three different types of chowder, all made fresh. Aunt Carrie’s is very affordable and provides a great atmosphere. You can place your order to stay or to go: there is an indoor dining area as well as screened in picnic tables. If you choose to go, walk down the path to the beach and enjoy the ocean view. Telephone: 401-783-7930 Web: Aunt Carrie’s Seafood Restaurant
George’s of Galilee $11 – 30
A family seafood restaurant that doubles as a bar at night located right on the beach. Wide selection of fresh local seafood, a sushi menu, lobster specials, as well as slow roasted prime rib. Sometimes offers live entertainment. Sit upstairs, downstairs, or outside to enjoy the ocean views. While the food is fresh, the service can be unpredictable when the restaurant is full. Telephone: 401-783-2306 Web: George’s of Galilee
Turtle Soup
Turtle Soup is literally right across the street from Narragansett Beach’s Seawall offering a beautiful view indoors or outdoor seating on the front lawn. This restaurant offers a wide variety of food including seafood, pasta, burgers, salads and soups. Not child-friendly. Telephone: 401-792-8683 Web: Turtle Soup
Trio $11 – 30
The menu reflects authentic New England seafood offerings with South County influences and ingredients, as well as steaks and chops and house-made pastas inspired by the Mediterranean. Inside dining is traditional and open-air dining can be enjoyed on their patio against the backdrop of Narragansett Bay, just steps from the beach. Telephone: 401-792-4333 Web: Trio
Matunuck Oyster Bar $11 – 30
With the Oyster Bar’s small exterior, you may drive right by the place. With a raving reputation for delicious locally raised shellfish and a breathtaking view this waterside shack may be South County’s best kept secret. Lines are long, especially in summer. Snag a table outside if you can. Telephone: 401-783-4202 Web: Matunuck Oyster Bar
Best Narragansett Nightlife
Bon Vue Inn
Bon Vue is a great place to hear live music and cheap drinks. Bon Vue has three floors all over looking the ocean, and open to porches in the summer months. Telephone: 401-789-0696 Web: Bon Vue Inn
Charlie O’s Tavern
If you are looking for a great place to meet people or go with your friends, Charlie-O’s is the place. Thursday nights are free pool nights. Sunday is $5 pitchers of Sangria. Who can forget about Happy Hr. going on during the week from 4-6PM TVs line the walls so you don’t miss a beat of your favorite team in action. Telephone: 401-782-2002 Web: Charlie O’s Tavern
Simon’s
Located above Charlie O’s, new bar featuring specialty martinis. Simon’s is a relaxed atmosphere where you can play darts or shuffle board, or comfortably sit around on couches while drinking and talking to friends. Telephone: 401-783-2900
Pancho O Malley’s
“Irish Pub with Mexican Grub”. They provide a large and interesting variety of food and drinks. Serving everynight until 1AM! Telephone: 401-782-2299 Web: Pancho O Malley’s
Coast Guard House
Amazing view and very friendly service. They have a great beer selection with a huge choice of local drafts available. If your are hungry, they have wonderful food as well! Telephone: 401-789-0700 Web: Coast Guard House
Pingback: Kelli Harmon
That’s one of the great things about this area—you do have the option to explore a bit without going too far. Since many of the beaches are fairly close to each other, it’s possible to visit more than one in a day, especially if you’re driving along the coast. That said, a lot of visitors end up choosing one main beach so they can really relax and enjoy it without feeling rushed. It really depends on whether you want a more laid-back day or a little variety.